Readers Durham County League: Brandon secretary Ian Johnson cannot understand why Jim Allenby has not been courted by Durham County.

Since the Australian first played in the region for Durham City he has been a prolific run maker.

Allenby gained in status with Philadelphia in the Foster's ECB North-East Regional Premier League and, for the last two seasons, has set the league alight with Brandon.

"Jim was tremendous all last year and this season he is doing even better. He could reach 500 runs this weekend - he requires another 65 after scoring 91, 63, 74no, 41no in a total of 44 and a massive unbeaten 166 last weekend.

"He is averaging 217.5 and only last week scored a century playing Leicestershire II," observed Johnson.

Allenby's contribution against Shildon last Saturday set a new club record, as did his partnership with Dean Storey (83no) which produced 218 runs for the third wicket.

Storey is averaging 68 and while Johnson paid tribute to the home-grown player he was more enthusiastic at the performances of Allenby.

"The lad just cannot put a foot wrong. He is not playing at the highest level, but he did exceptionally well during his time in the Premier League with Philadelphia,'' added Johnson.

"He has had trials with Kent and is playing a few games for Leicester so it is quite surprising Durham have not shown any interest.''

Today Brandon are involved in a match of the day at Mainsforth who have made their best start for three decades.

"I have never known us do so well at the start of a season. We are obviously delighted and confidence is sky-high," claimed secretary John Irvine, who has been involved with Mainsforth for 33 years.

Mainsforth had their game with Esh Winning washed out, but have beaten Evenwood, Hylton, Tudhoe and Willington to raise hopes of a title challenge.

Evenwood are confident their new overseas player Daesrath Damodar, who captains Guayana, will make his debut at home to Willington.

He replaced injured Rayad Emrait.

Andy Poole is the player likely to make way while Willington, who have lost twice in the first five games, are expected to field a strong line-up.

Etherley travel to Langley Park without a professional.

Newcomers Hylton are pleased with the start they have made after moving from the Durham Coast League. They are at home to Tudhoe and minus captain David Batty and Leon Foster, who are replaced by the Rushworth brothers, Gary and Craig. Gary Hewitt will lead the team.

Chris Hurst replaces unavailable wicket keeper Michael Robson in the Esh Winning line-up at Crook Town.

Chris's father, the former Durham County Player, Graham, will keep wicket.

Brian Potts is handed his debut by Kimblesworth following his move from Lanchester and the young wicket keeper/batsman is named in a strong side at Ushaw Moor.